Healthy Kids Initiative FAQ: How to Apply

Healthy Kids Initiative FAQ: How to Apply

If your organization is considering the Healthy Kids Initiative but still has questions about eligibility, funding, or what happens after you apply, this FAQ covers the details. The 2026 application window is open now and closes June 30, 2026. Below are the answers to the questions we hear most.

What is the Healthy Kids Initiative?

The Healthy Kids Initiative is a playground funding program from Play & Park Structures designed to help communities bring new play spaces to life. The program allocates funding to qualifying organizations, with the goal of maximizing available budgets so communities can build the playground they actually need rather than settling for what they can afford on their own.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any organization that serves children and could benefit from a new or updated playground is encouraged to apply. Final eligibility is confirmed during the review process, but the program is designed to serve a broad range of community-facing groups. If your work involves creating spaces for children to play, learn, or grow, the application is worth your time.

What types of organizations typically qualify?

The Healthy Kids Initiative serves seven primary segments: Parks and Recreation departments, public and private schools, early childhood education centers, HOAs, faith-based communities, landscape architects working on eligible sites, and community planners. Approval is determined on a project-by-project basis, not guaranteed by organization type alone.

What does "up to $15 million" mean?

"Up to $15 million" reflects the funding Play & Park Structures has committed to the 2026 Healthy Kids Initiative. Award size and structure are determined during the review process based on project scope and fit. Your local Play Consultant can walk through what the funding may look like for your specific project.

What does the funding actually cover?

Funding applies to play structures only, across seven qualifying product lines: SuperMax, Duramax, Parallax, Totmax, Boulderscapes, Horizons, and Skyline. It does not cover tax, freight, surfacing, or installation. Applicants should plan their full project budget with those additional costs accounted for separately.

What is the deadline to apply?

The application deadline is June 30, 2026. Certificates awarded through the program are valid through September 30, 2026, giving approved applicants a 90-day window to move forward with their order.

What happens after I submit my application?

Once submitted, your application enters the review process. A local Play & Park Structures Play Consultant may reach out for additional context about your project. Decisions are communicated as they are made, and approved applicants receive their certificate with details on next steps.

How long does the review process take?

Review timing varies by project and application volume. The team works to respond promptly so approved applicants have time to plan within the certificate window. If you have a specific timeline driving your project, note that in your application so the review team has context.

What is the Community Impact Advantage?

The Community Impact Advantage is the broader program within which the Healthy Kids Initiative sits. It provides four resources to approved communities: funding support, public engagement surveys, Design Studio services, and data-driven results tracking.

Do I need to have a project fully planned before applying?

No. The application is designed as a starting point. A Play Consultant works with approved applicants on design, scope, and product selection after the initial inquiry. Having a general sense of your site and community needs is helpful; a finished plan is not required.

Can I apply if I'm unsure I qualify?

Yes. The application is a low-commitment first step that helps both you and the Play & Park Structures team determine whether it's a good fit. Your local Play Consultant can answer questions about your specific situation before or after you submit, as well as help you find ways to fund your playground initiatives.

What happens if I miss the deadline?

The 2026 Healthy Kids Initiative application window closes June 30, 2026, and certificates awarded are valid through September 30, 2026. Organizations that miss the window are encouraged to connect with their Play Consultant to explore other playground funding paths and to watch for future Healthy Kids Initiative cycles.

Ready to Apply?

The application takes just a few minutes. If you have questions before starting, your local Play Consultant is available to help. Otherwise, the form below is your next step.